Common Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
One of the challenges with kidney cancer is that it often develops quietly. Many people don’t realize they have it until it’s discovered incidentally through an imaging scan done for another reason.
Still, certain signs and symptoms might begin to show, especially as the tumor grows. Here are the most important ones to watch out for:
1. Blood in Your Urine (Hematuria)
This is the most common and often the earliest visible symptom. Your urine may appear:
- Pink
- Reddish
- Brown (like cola)
The bleeding might not happen all the time, it can come and go, or be so faint that you only notice it during routine tests. However, any blood in your urine should be taken seriously.
Other potential causes for blood in the urine include infections or kidney stones, but it’s always better to rule out something more serious.
2. Persistent Lower Back Pain
Back pain is incredibly common, especially in people over 40, and is usually linked to muscle strain or spinal issues. But with kidney cancer, the pain is different.
You may experience:
- A dull ache below the ribs or on one side
- A sharp stabbing pain in the flank
- Pain that doesn’t go away or worsens over time
If you feel unusual discomfort in the back that persists for more than a few days, especially when paired with other symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
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